BR102017000599A2 - SWITCHING DEVICE WITH A SUSPENDED MOBILE CONTACT DEVICE - Google Patents

Abstract

switching device with a suspended mobile contact assembly. switching device (1) comprising: - an outer housing (2) defining an internal volume of said switching device; - one or more electric posts (3), wherein each electric post comprises one or more movable contacts (31) and one or more contacts (32) adapted for coupling or uncoupling during a switching operation of said switching device; - a contact rod (4) accommodated in the internal volume of said switching device and adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation (400) during a switching operation of said switching device, wherein said contact rod has a molded body comprising one or more contact seats (41) adapted to at least partially accommodate said movable contacts (31), so that said movable contacts rotate with said contact rod (4) about said axis of contact. rotation (400) during a switching operation of said switching device; and - a control mechanism (5) comprising a support structure (51, 510) attached to said outer housing (2) for supporting movable members of said control mechanism and one or more connecting rods (52) for providing a force to move said contact rod (4) during a switching operation of said switching device. The switching device comprises one or more coupling elements (61) for providing mechanical connection between said control mechanism and said contact rod.

Description

SWITCHING DEVICE WITH A MOBILE CONTACT SET

SUSPENDED

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to the field of switching devices (such as circuit breakers, contactors, disconnectors and the like) for low voltage applications.

Particularly, the present invention relates to a low voltage switching device of the type equipped with a rotatable suspended mobile contact assembly.

For the purposes of this patent application, the term "low voltage" (LV) means operating voltages of less than 1 kV AC and 1.5 kV DC.

TECHNICAL STATE

As is well known, switching devices for LV applications comprise one or more electrical poles, each comprising one or more movable contacts and fixed contacts that can be coupled / uncoupled from each other.

Some known switching devices, such as described in patent application WO 2006 / 120149A1, are equipped with a suspended mobile contact assembly.

Normally, the movable contact assembly comprises a rotating contact rod with seats to accommodate the movable contacts.

[007] The movable contact assembly is held in operative position by suitable support elements which are securely fastened to the outer housing of the switching device and are pivoted with the contact rod to allow rotation of the latter about an axis of rotation. rotation (suspended mobile contact assembly).

[008] The movable contact assembly is operated by a suitable control mechanism with connecting members (which basically have no support functions) articulated with the contact rod.

[009] This control mechanism is adapted to provide a force to rotate the contact rod during a switching operation of the switching device so that by rotating said rod the moving contacts of the switching device are moved from a position of coupling to a decoupling position with the corresponding fixed contacts (switching device opening maneuver) or vice versa (switching device closing maneuver).

Switching devices of the type described above have been found to be somewhat difficult to assemble on an industrial level.

Specifically, the arrangement of the suspended mobile contact assembly is generally time consuming to be performed on an industrial level, as several parts and components need to be interconnected to assemble said assembly in their correct operating position.

In addition, various mechanical tolerances need to be adhered to during assembly and installation of said movable contact assembly to ensure proper operation during switching device maneuvers.

The apparent structural complexity of the interconnections between the movable contact assembly and its supporting elements or between the movable contact assembly and the control mechanism enables generally difficult maintenance interventions, particularly when they are directed to the mobile contacts of the device. switching

Obviously, the above mentioned disadvantages imply relatively high operating costs for such switching devices.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] It is an object of the present invention to provide a suspended mobile contact type switching device which enables the above mentioned problems to be overcome.

More specifically, it is an object of the present invention to provide a switchgear with simplified structure, particularly with respect to arrangements for supporting and operating the movable contact assembly.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a switching device in which maintenance interventions can be carried out easily, with specific consideration to the moving contacts of the switching device.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide an easier and cheaper industrial manufacturing and mounting switch with respect to switching devices of the same type available today.

To achieve these ends and objects, the present invention provides a switching device according to claim 1 below and related dependent claims.

According to a general definition, the switching device according to the present invention comprises: an outer housing defining an internal volume of said switching device; one or more electric poles, wherein each electric pole comprises one or more moving contacts and one or more contacts adapted to be coupled or uncoupled during a switching operation of said switching device; a contact rod accommodated within the internal volume of said switching device and adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation during a switching operation of said switching device, wherein said contact rod has a molded body comprising one or more further contact seats adapted to at least partially accommodate said movable contacts such that said movable contacts rotate with said contact rod about said axis of rotation during a switching operation of said switching device; a control mechanism for operating said contact rod, wherein said control mechanism comprises a support structure attached to said outer sheath for supporting movable members of said control mechanism and one or more connecting rods for providing a force for moving said contact rod during a switching operation of said switching device.

According to the present invention, the switching device comprises one or more coupling elements for supporting said contact rod and providing mechanical connection between said control mechanism and said contact rod.

Said coupling elements comprise: first coupling point, wherein said coupling elements are fixed to said contact rod, so that said coupling element supports said contact rod and maintains said rod. relative contact position with respect to said external shelter; second coupling point, wherein said coupling elements are pivoted with one or more corresponding support frame portions of said control mechanism support structure, so that said coupling elements provide a center of rotation for said coupling. contact rod around said axis of rotation; and a third coupling point, wherein said coupling elements are articulated with one or more corresponding connecting rods of said control mechanism, so that said connecting rods exert force on said coupling members to rotate said coupling members. coupling and said contact rod about said axis of rotation during a switching operation of said switching device.

According to one aspect of the present invention, said coupling elements are configured as a lever, wherein said first coupling point is the point of said lever on which a mechanical load is applied, said second coupling point. coupling is the fulcrum point of said lever and said third coupling point is the point of said lever over which a force is applied.

According to this aspect of the present invention, said coupling elements operate as a lever of the first type with an intermediate fulcrum.

According to one aspect of the present invention, said coupling elements comprise: at least one support portion fixed with said contact rod at said first coupling point and hinged with a corresponding support structure portion at said second point. coupling; and at least one driving portion hinged to a corresponding connecting rod at said third coupling point and to a corresponding support frame portion at said second coupling point.

According to one aspect of the present invention, said coupling elements are at least partially accommodated in one or more corresponding coupling recesses of said contact rod.

According to one aspect of the present invention, said coupling elements are formed by at least one molded plate (preferably L-shaped) comprising a support leg forming said support portion and a driving leg which extend into a coupling member. extends between said second and third coupling points and forms said conducting portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Additional features and advantages of the present invention will emerge from the description of preferred but non-exclusive embodiments of non-limiting examples which are provided in the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic view of one embodiment of the device. switchgear according to the present invention; Figures 2-4, 4A-4B and 5-9 show other schematic partial views of Figure 1; Figure 9A schematically shows a part of another embodiment of the switching device according to the present invention; and Figure 10 shows a schematic partial view of another embodiment of the switching device according to the present invention.

Referring to the aforementioned figures, the present invention relates to a switching device 1 suitable for installation on an LV electrical connector panel or, more generally, on an LV power distribution network.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

According to the present invention, the switching device 1 comprises an outer housing 2 which defines an internal volume 101-102 of the switching device.

Preferably, the outer sheath 2 comprises a rear part 21, a front part and a cover part 23.

Preferably, the back 21 comprises first and second opposing sides 211, 212 and first opposing side faces 213.

In a normal vertical installation of the switching device, the first side 211 at least partially defines a rear side of the outer sheath 2, on which the switching device may be attached to a support, while the first side faces 213 define portions. corresponding to the side faces of the outer shelter 2.

Preferably, the front part 212 comprises opposite third and fourth sides 211, 222 and opposite second side faces 223. In a normal vertical installation of the switching device, side faces 223 define corresponding portions of the side faces of the outer sheath 2.

The rear part 21 and the front part 22 are coupled to each other on the corresponding second and third sides 212, 221, which are conveniently shaped to define first internal volume part 101 adapted to accommodate the components of the switching device, which are supplied with electricity at their operating voltages, for example, the electrical contacts, the mobile contact assembly or the arc-shaped chambers of the switching device.

Conveniently, at the corresponding coupled sides 212-222, the portions 21, 22 of the outer sheath 2 comprise at least partially or geometrically conjugated protuberances and recesses to define the first internal volume portion 101 and to ensure adequate mutual mechanical coupling. .

Preferably, the cover portion 22 comprises opposite fifth and sixth sides. In a normal vertical installation of the switching device, the sixth side 232 at least partially defines a front side of the outer housing 2, in which the switching device may be accessed by the user.

Front portion 22 and cover portion 23 are coupled to each other on corresponding fourth and fifth sides 222, 231 conveniently shaped to define a second electrically segregated inner volume portion 102 from the first inner volume portion 101 and adapted to accommodate switching device components, which are not supplied with electricity at their operating voltages, such as mechanical components of the switching device.

Conveniently, at the corresponding coupled sides 222-231, portions 22, 23 of outer sheath 2 comprise at least partially or geometrically conjugated protuberances and recesses to define the second internal volume portion 102 and to ensure adequate mutual mechanical coupling. .

Preferably, the switching device 1 comprises first securing means 180 for mechanical coupling of the different parts 21, 22, 23, 24 of the outer housing 2. The securing means 180 may be of known type, such as nuts, bolts or risers.

Preferably, the outer sheath 2 is made of electrical insulating material (e.g. a heat shrinkable resin), which may be of known type.

However, in some applications (for example, when the switching device 1 is a circuit breaker), the outer housing 2, or some of its parts, may be made of electrically conductive material. Of course, in such cases suitable insulating elements need to be arranged between the electrically driven components (eg the electrical contacts) of the switching device and the outer housing 2.

As shown in Figure 1, the switching device 1 may also comprise a relay 300 for controlling the operation of the switching device. In a normal vertical installation of the switching device, the relay 300 is preferably mechanically coupled to a lower side of the outer housing 2.

According to the present invention, the switching device 1 also comprises one or more electric poles 3.

Each electrical pole 3 comprises one or more movable contacts 31 and one or more fixed contacts 32 adapted for coupling or uncoupling during a switching operation (e.g., an opening or closing operation) of the switching device.

When electrical contacts 31, 32 are coupled, switching device 1 is in a closed state and when electrical contacts 31, 32 are decoupled, switching device 1 is in an open state.

In the embodiments shown in the figures cited, the switching device 1 is of the three phase type and comprises three electric poles, each of which comprises a series of fixed contacts 32 and a series of movable contacts 31, which may be coupled or uncoupled. during a switching operation of the switching device.

Other solutions are, however, possible depending on the specific application of the switching device 1.

In some embodiments (as shown in the above figures) of the switching device, each movable contact 31 may be electrically connected to the electrical connection medium 31A which, in turn, is electrically connected to an electrical distribution line. The electrical connection means 31A comprises, for example, one or more electrically conductive cords for one or more electrodes.

According to alternate embodiments (Figure 9A) of the switching device, each movable contact 31 may be adapted for coupling / uncoupling at its opposite ends with a corresponding pair of fixed contacts 32 (double break configuration).

Other solutions are possible depending on the specific application of the switching device 1. According to the present invention, the switching device 1 comprises a contact rod 4 which is accommodated in the internal volume of the switching device, namely in its part. internal volume 101.

The contact rod 4 is adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation 400 during a switching operation of the switching device.

The contact rod 4 has an elongate shaped body extending longitudinally along its axis of rotation 400 and is at least partially made of an insulating material (e.g. a heat shrinkable resin).

Preferably, the geometry of said molded body is substantially cylindrical in type.

The contact rod body 4 comprises one or more contact seats 41 adapted to accommodate at least partially one or more movable contacts 31.

In this way, the movable contacts 31 and contact rod 4 (and possibly the electrical connection means 31A) form a movable contact assembly 314 which rotates about the rotary axis 400 during a rotary switch operation. switching device.

Preferably, the contact rod 4 comprises a seat 41 for each electrical pole 3 of the switching device, which is configured to accommodate the movable contacts 31 of the corresponding electrical pole. Each seat 41 can therefore accommodate one or more movable contacts 41.

Preferably, the seats 41 are configured so that the movable contacts 31 protrude from the contact rod 4 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 400.

Preferably, the seats 41 are adjacent to each other and are configured to have the movable contacts 31 accommodated therein having a common axis of rotation 400 with the contact rod 4.

Preferably, the switching device 1 comprises second securing means (not shown) for mechanically connecting the movable contacts 31 with the contact rod 4 in the seats 41 of the latter. Said second securing means may be of known type, such as pins, nuts or tie rods.

In the embodiments shown in the figures cited, each seat 41 is conveniently configured to accommodate a pair of movable contacts 31 and the electrical connection means 31A electrically connected to said pair of movable contacts.

Seats 41 are preferably configured so that movable contacts 31 and electrical connection means 31A protrude from the contact rod 4 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 400 on opposite sides of the contact rod.

Other solutions are, however, possible depending on the specific application of the switching device 1.

According to the present invention, the switching device 1 comprises a control mechanism 5 for operating the contact rod 4.

Preferably, the control mechanism 5 is accommodated in the second internal volume portion 102.

The control mechanism 5 comprises a support structure 51 attached to the outer housing 2 to provide support to movable members of the control mechanism.

Preferably, the support structure 51 comprises molded side portions 51A which are spaced apart. The side portions 51A may be formed of suitably shaped metal plates.

Preferably, the support structure 51 comprises one or more transverse portions 51B positioned between the side portions 51A and mechanically connected thereto to increase the overall mechanical rigidity of the support structure. The transverse portions 51B may be formed by appropriate tie rods or pins (as shown in Figures 1-9) or by properly molded metal plates (as shown in Figure 10).

Preferably, the support structure 5 comprises support structure parts 510 arranged to traverse the front portion 22 of the outer housing 2 into suitable (not shown) first openings of said front portion.

In this way, the frame portions 510 protrude at least partially into the first internal volume portion 101 in which the contact rod is positioned.

Preferably, the support frame portions 510 are formed by first molded protrusions of the side portions 51A of the support frame 51.

Preferably, the support structure 51 comprises fastening parts 511 adapted to allow the mechanical connection of the support structure 51 to the outer shelter 2.

Preferably, the fastening parts 511 are formed by second molded protrusions of the side parts 51A of the support structure 51.

Preferably, the switching device 1 comprises third securing means 150 for mechanically coupling the outer housing 2 with the support structure 5 to the securing portions 511. The securing means 150 may be of known type, such as nuts , bolts or tie rods.

The control mechanism 5 comprises one or more connecting rods 52 adapted to provide a force to move the contact rod 4 during a switching operation of the switching device.

Preferably, the connecting rods 52 are arranged to traverse the front portion 22 of the outer housing 2 into suitable (not shown) second openings of said front portion. In this way, the connecting rods 52 protrude at least partially into the first internal volume portion 101 in which the contact rod is positioned.

Preferably, the connecting rods 52 are operatively connected to one or more control mechanism drive members 53, which are configured to properly engage the connecting rods 51.

Preferably, the control mechanism 5 comprises a drive rod 55 operably connected to the drive members 53 of the control mechanism, which may be driven by a drive device to operate the switch device 1.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-9, the control mechanism 5 comprises a drive lever 54 operably connected to the drive members 53 of the control mechanism, which may be manually actuated by a user to operate the switching device 1. .

In the embodiment shown in Figure 10, the control mechanism 5 comprises a loading lever 550 for driving the drive rod 55.

Other solutions are possible, however, depending on the specific application of the switching device 1.

According to the present invention, the switching device 1 comprises one or more coupling elements 61 adapted to support the contact rod 4 and to provide mechanical connection between the control mechanism 5 and the contact rod 4.

Preferably, each coupling element 61 is at least partially accommodated in a corresponding coupling recess 45 of the contact rod 4.

Preferably, each coupling recess 45 is disposed between a pair of adjacent contact seats 41 of contact rod 4.

According to the present invention, each coupling element 61 comprises a first coupling point 611, wherein said coupling element is fixed to the contact rod 4.

In this way, the coupling elements 61 support said contact rod 4 and hold it in position relative to the outer housing 2.

More specifically, the coupling elements 61 hold the contact rod 4 in a suspended position within the first inner volume portion 101, so that the contact rod 4 is free to rotate about the axis of rotation 400.

Preferably, the coupling elements 61 comprise first coupling seats 61 IA (formed, for example, by through-holes) at the first coupling points 611 (Figure 4).

Preferably, the contact rod 4 comprises one or more attachment points 40, wherein the coupling elements 61 are secured to the contact rod 4 at the first coupling points 611 (Figure 9).

Preferably, the first coupling points 611 of the coupling elements 611 and the corresponding attachment points 40 of the contact rod 4 are aligned along an attachment axis 40A, which is substantially parallel to the rotation axis 400. and separate from the latter.

In practice, the clamping axis 40A is positioned in an eccentric position with respect to a cross section of the contact rod 40, which is perpendicular to the axis of rotation 400.

[0092] This solution provides relevant advantages over traditional switching devices.

[0093] The position of the clamping shaft 40A can be properly designed to facilitate mounting of the contact rod 4.

The contact rod 4 can be mounted / removed as a whole without intervention on the movable contacts 31 operatively connected to the contact rod on the rotation axis 400 (i.e. along a clamping axis other than the contact axis). fixation 40A).

[0095] This substantially facilitates the mounting of the switching device and the execution of possible maintenance work.

Mechanical efforts are transmitted on parts (made of plastic material) of contact rod 4, which are separate from movable contacts 31.

This enhances the overall robustness of the movable contact assembly formed by contact rod 4 and movable contacts 31.

Finally, this solution facilitates electrical isolation between movable contacts 31 and coupling elements 61 (and the parts of control mechanism 5 connected to them).

Preferably, the switching device 1 comprises securing means 46 for securing coupling elements 61 to the contact rod 4.

As shown in the figures cited, the securing means 46 may comprise an elongated securing pin which is inserted into a securing cavity 460 of the contact rod 4 extending longitudinally along the securing axis 40A. At the fastening points 40 of the contact rod 4, the fastening pin 46 crosses the first coupling seats 61 IA of the coupling elements 61.

Alternatively (not shown), securing means 46 may comprise a securing pin for each coupling element 61. Each securing pin is inserted into the securing cavity 460 and is mechanically coupled to a corresponding coupling element 61 at a first coupling seat 61 IA of the latter.

Other solutions (eg plug-in connections) are possible as required.

According to the present invention, each coupling element 61 also comprises a second coupling point 612 (spaced from coupling point 611), wherein said coupling element is pivoted to a corresponding support frame portion 510 of the frame. mechanism support bracket 51.

In this way the coupling elements 61 provide a center of rotation for the contact rod 4 around the axis of rotation 400.

As they are coupled to the support structure 5 which in turn is securely fastened to the outer sheath 2, the coupling elements 61 fix the position of the rotational axis 400 of the contact rod 4 within the first part. internal volume 101 at the second coupling points 612 which are separate from the first coupling points 611.

As they are secured to contact rod 4 at first coupling points 611, coupling elements 61 rotate solidly with contact rod 4 about rotation axis 400 at the centers of rotation formed by the second coupling points. 612.

Referring to Figures 4A-4B, the movements of the coupling elements 61 during switching operations of the switching device are shown schematically.

In Figure 4A, the coupling elements 61 are positioned in a first operating position corresponding to a coupling position of the electrical contacts 31, 32 (the switching device is in a closed state).

In Figure 4B, the coupling elements 61 are positioned in a second operating position corresponding to a coupling position of the electrical contacts 31, 32 (the switching device is in an open state).

During an opening or closing operation of the switching device, the coupling elements 61 rotate around the rotation axis 400 together with the contact rod and the movable contacts 31, respectively according to a direction of rotation. R1 or a mutually opposite direction of rotation R2.

Preferably, the coupling elements 61 comprise second coupling seats 612A (formed, for example, through through holes) at the second coupling points 612 (Figure 4).

Preferably, the support frame members 510 comprise one or more first pivot points 510A, wherein the coupling elements 61 are pivoted to the support structure 5 at the second coupling points 612 (Figure 10).

Preferably, the second coupling points 612 of the coupling elements 61 and the corresponding first pivot points 510A of the support frame portions 510 are aligned along a same first pivot axis that coincides with the pivot axis 400. of the contact rod.

Preferably, the support frame portions 510 comprise one or more first pivot seats 510B (formed, for example, by through-holes) at the first pivot points 510A (Figure 10).

Preferably, the switching device 1 comprises first pivoting means 56 for pivoting coupling elements 61 with corresponding support frame portions 510.

As shown in Figures 1-9, the first pivot means 56 may comprise one or more first pivot pins, each passing through the second coupling seat 612A of a coupling element 61 and the first pivoting seat 510B of each other. a corresponding support structure part.

Alternatively (Figure 10), securing means 56 may comprise a single elongated pin traversing the second coupling seats 612A of the coupling elements 61 and the first pivot seats 510B of the supporting frame portions 510.

Other solutions (such as snap fittings) are possible as required.

According to the present invention, each coupling element 61 also comprises a third coupling point 613 (separate from coupling points 611, 612), wherein said coupling element is articulated with a corresponding connecting rod 52 of the mechanism. of control 5.

In this way the coupling elements 61 are subjected to a force F exerted by the connecting rods 52 to rotate said coupling elements and the contact rod 4 about the rotation axis 400 during a switching operation of the coupling. switching device.

Referring to Figures 4A-4B, the direction of the force F exerted by the connecting rods 52 depends on whether or not the switching device 1 performs an opening or closing maneuver.

It is evident, however, that the coupling elements 61 are capable of transforming a translation force F exerted by the connecting rods 52 into a rotational force transmitted to the movable contact assembly 314.

Preferably, the coupling elements 61 comprise third coupling seats 613A (formed, for example, through through holes) at the third coupling points 613 (Figure 4).

Preferably, the connecting rods 52 comprise one or more second pivot points 52A at which coupling elements 61 are pivoted to said connecting rods at third coupling points 613 (Figure 10).

The third coupling points 613 of the coupling elements 61 and the corresponding second pivot points 52A of the connecting rods 52 are aligned along a second pivot axis 520 parallel to and spaced from the latter.

Conveniently, the wheelbase 520, 400 may be selected as a function of the force to be transmitted to the movable contact assembly 314.

Preferably, the connecting rods 52 comprise one or more second pivot seats 52B (formed, for example, through through holes) at the pivot points 52A (Figure 10).

Preferably, the switching device 1 comprises second pivoting means 57 for pivoting coupling elements 61 with corresponding connecting rods 52.

As shown in Figures 1-9, the second pivot means 57 comprises one or more second pivot pins, each passing through the third coupling seat 613A of a coupling member 61 and the second pivot seat 52B of a second pivot. corresponding connecting rod 52.

Alternatively (Figure 10), the securing means 57 may comprise a single elongated pin passing through the third coupling seats 613A of the coupling elements 61 and the second pivot seats 52B of the connecting rods 52.

Other solutions (eg pressure connections) are possible as required.

According to one aspect of the present invention (as shown in the figures cited), each coupling element 61 is configured as a lever (namely, a lever of the first type with intermediate fulcrum), wherein the first coupling point 611 is the lever point at which a mechanical load (movable contact assembly 314) is applied, the second coupling point 612 is the fulcrum point of the lever and the third coupling point 613 is the lever point over which a force ( force F exerted by connecting rods 52) is applied.

Preferably, each coupling element 61 comprises at least one support part 614 fixed with the contact rod 4 in the first coupling part 611 and hinged with a corresponding support structure part 510 in the second coupling point 612 (Figure 4).

Preferably, each coupling element 61 comprises at least one hinged driving portion 615 with a corresponding support frame portion 510 at the second coupling point and with a corresponding connecting rod 52 at the third coupling point 613 (Figure 4 ).

[00135] The above described configuration of coupling elements 61 provides relevant advantages in the operation of contact rod 4.

The support portion 614 of the coupling elements 61 may be suitably designed to optimize the mechanical support of the contact rod 4, for example depending on the size and weight of the latter, while the driving portion 615 of the coupling elements 61 may be suitably designed to optimize the actuation of the contact rod 4, for example depending on the size and weight of the latter and the force provided by the control mechanism 5.

[00137] The two support and drive parts 614, 615 may be suitably designed to reduce overall size and improve overall structural integration.

According to one aspect of the present invention, each coupling element 61 is formed by at least one molded plate comprising a support leg 614 and a guide leg 615, which form the support part and guide part mentioned above. , respective mind.

Preferably, said at least one molded plate is configured to operate as a lever of the first type with intermediate fulcrum.

Preferably, said at least one molded plate is L-shaped.

Preferably, each coupling element 61 is formed by a pair of mutually joined L-shaped plates parallel to one another (Figures 1-9).

Preferably, said L-shaped plates are joined at the coupling points 611, 612, 613 by the securing means 46 and the pivoting means 56, 57 described above.

Alternatively (Figure 10), each coupling element 61 is formed by a single L-shaped plate.

Preferably, the support leg 614 of an L-shaped plate extends between the first and second coupling points 611,612, while the driving leg 615 of an L-shaped plate extends between the second and third coupling points 612, 613.

Preferably, the support leg 614 and the driving leg 615 of an L-shaped plate are coplanar and extend along the extension directions D1, D2, intersecting at the second coupling point 612 (Figures 4 5).

Preferably, the extension directions D1, D2 form an angle greater than or equal to 90 ° at the second coupling point 612.

Preferably, the support leg 614 is longer than the driving leg 615.

Preferably, each coupling recess 45 of the contact rod 4 comprises a holding cavity 450, in which the support leg 614 of a corresponding L-shaped plate is inserted.

Preferably, each coupling recess 45 comprises a first contact surface 451, in which the driving leg 615 of a corresponding L-shaped plate at least partially abuts.

Preferably, each coupling recess 45 comprises a second contact surface 452, in which a corresponding support frame portion 510 at least partially abuts.

The technical solutions described above provide relevant advantages in terms of structural integration between coupling elements 61, connecting rods 52 and contact rod 4.

This allows for a noticeable reduction in the overall size of the switching device 1 over traditional prior art solutions.

The switching device according to the present invention allows to achieve the intended purposes and objects.

The switching device according to the present invention is characterized by high mechanical efficiency of the moving parts, particularly of the moving contact assembly 314. Coupling elements 61 actually improve the robustness and stability of the contact assembly. mobile 314.

The switching device according to the present invention has a compact internal structure with a limited number of components.

Coupling elements 61, in fact, remarkably simplify the positioning of contact rod 4 without interfering with movable contacts 31.

The switching device according to the present invention is therefore easier to manufacture and assemble on an industrial level compared to traditional switching devices.

In addition, servicing can be performed easily, particularly with respect to the movable contact assembly 314.

The switching device according to the present invention is therefore characterized by lower operating costs compared to currently available switching devices of the traditional type.

The switching device according to the present invention provides high performance during switching operations.

Coupling elements 61, in fact, guarantee improved control of the movements of the moving contact assembly 314 and high rotation accuracy of the contact rod 4, to reduce the occurrence of friction and wear phenomena.

Claims

Claims (14)

1. Switching device (1) comprising: an outer housing (2) defining an internal volume of said switching device; one or more electric posts (3), wherein each electric post comprises one or more movable contacts (31) and one or more fixed contacts (32) adapted for coupling or uncoupling during a switching operation of said switching device; a contact rod (4) accommodated on the internal volume (101, 102) of said switching device and adapted to pivot about an axis of rotation (400) during a switching operation of said switching device, wherein said The contact rod has a molded body comprising one or more contact seats (41) adapted to accommodate at least partially said movable contacts (31) such that said movable contacts rotate with said contact rod (4). ) about said axis of rotation (400) during a switching operation of said switching device; a control mechanism (5) for operating said contact rod, wherein said control mechanism comprises a support structure (51, 510) attached to said outer housing (2) for supporting movable members of said contact mechanism. control and one or more connecting rods (52) to provide a force to move said contact rod (4) during a switching operation of said switching device; characterized in that it comprises one or more coupling elements (61) for supporting said contact rod and providing mechanical connection between said control mechanism and said contact rod, wherein said coupling elements comprise: first point coupling elements (611), wherein said coupling elements are secured to said contact rod so that said coupling elements support said contact rod (4) and holding said contact rod in position relative to said housing external (2); second coupling point (612), wherein said coupling elements are hinged with corresponding support frame portions (510) of said support structure (51), so that said coupling elements provide a center of rotation for the said contact rod (4) about said axis of rotation (400); and third coupling point (613), wherein said coupling elements are articulated with corresponding connecting rods (52) of said control mechanism, such that said connecting rods exert a force on said coupling elements to rotating said coupling elements and said contact rod (4) about said axis of rotation (400) during a switching operation of said switching device. Switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that said coupling elements (61) are configured as a lever, wherein said first coupling point (611) is the point of said lever. above which a mechanical load is applied, said second coupling point (612) is the fulcrum point of said lever and said third coupling point (613) is the point of said lever over which a force is applied. Switching device according to claim 2, characterized in that said coupling elements (61) comprise: at least one support portion (614), which is fixed with said contact rod (4) at said first coupling point (611) and is hinged to a corresponding support frame portion (510) at said second coupling point (612); and at least one guide portion (615) which is hinged to a corresponding connecting rod (52) at said third coupling point (613) and which is hinged to a corresponding support frame portion (51) at said second. coupling point (612). Switching device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said coupling elements (61) are at least partially accommodated in corresponding coupling recesses (45) of said contact rod. Switching device according to claim 4, characterized in that said contact rod (4) comprises a series of adjacent contact seats (41) for accommodating said movable contacts, wherein each recess The coupling rod (45) of said contact rod is disposed between a pair of contact seats adjacent to said contact rod. Switching device according to claim 3, characterized in that said coupling elements (61) are formed by at least one L-shaped plate, wherein said molded plate comprises a support leg ( 614) forming said support portion and a guide leg (615) forming said guide portion. Switching device according to claim 6, characterized in that the support leg (614) and the said driving leg (615) extend along coplanar directions forming an angle greater than or equal to 90 ° at said second coupling point (612). Switching device according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that said coupling elements (61) are formed by a pair of said L-shaped plates which are joined together and positioned parallel to each other. each other. Switching device according to any one of claims 4 and 6 or 7, characterized in that each coupling recess (45) comprises at least one fixing cavity (450) into which the support leg (45) is inserted. 614) (61) of a corresponding L-shaped plate. Switching device according to any one of claims 4 and 6 or 7, characterized in that said coupling recesses (45) comprise at least a first contact surface (451), in which the driving leg (45) 615) of a corresponding L-shaped plate at least partially abuts. Switching device according to any one of claims 4 and 6 or 7, characterized in that said coupling recesses (45) comprise at least a second contact surface (452), in which a housing structure part support (510) at least partially abuts. Switching device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises securing means (46) for securing said coupling elements (61) to said contact rod (4). Switching device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises first articulating means (56) for articulating said coupling elements (61) with corresponding support frame portions (510). Switching device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a second articulating means (57) for articulating said coupling elements (61) with corresponding connecting rods (52).